In a previous blog post about board candidacy, we highlighted the importance of putting together the right board documents when applying for a board seat. In this blog post, we will focus on some of the do’s and don’ts when creating and fine tuning your board profile. Without a strategically crafted board profile, your chances of getting a board seat dwindle.
From executive to non-executive
Serving on a board can be a great way to enrich your career as an experienced executive. Applying for a board position is in many ways like applying for an executive job: Your past experiences, your skill set, and the fit with the company and its culture are determining factors in the strength of your application. Similar to a traditional job application, a board profile is not a static document. It needs to be adjusted based on the organization and position you are applying for. However, a board profile is not the same as a resume.
Your value proposition
A good board profile emphasizes why they should appoint you to the board in question. Instead of a chronological listing of all your past positions, certifications, and degrees, you should lead with any prior governance experience and leave out early-career and minor roles. Ideally, you can list past and/or present board positions in order of relevance. However, if you are an aspiring director who hasn’t sat on a board before, that can be more complicated. In that case, you can showcase that you are a highly qualified board candidate by leveraging your most relevant board-level, committee, and/or governance experience as an executive. Your profile should be an overview of the career successes, credentials, and achievements that demonstrate the specific value and skills you can bring to the board.
Bring your board profile to the next level.
Crafting a good board profile takes time. To keep it informative and concise, it is important to reflect thoroughly on what is relevant and what isn’t to tell your story. Creating a board profile is an iterative process. When it comes to your career – especially if you had many professional successes - it can be hard to distill it into a single-page profile that focuses on what will make you stand out for a specific board position. Receiving and implementing feedback from experts and peers can bring your profile to the next level. At Corporate Board USA, that is exactly what we do. Our curriculum and events are designed to prepare you for your first or next board seat with the help of experts and our community. Don’t miss our September Summit “The Path to the Boardroom” if you are ready to create, fine tune, and raise your board profile!
At Corporate Boards USA, our mission is to prepare executives to be highly qualified board candidates. We offer our members educational courses and events, networking opportunities, boardroom news, workshops, and mentorship programs. Learn more about membership. We Make You Board Ready.